Crock Pot Beef and Bean Soup Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a hearty, flavorful, and effortlessly hands-off meal, then you absolutely must try this Crock Pot Beef and Bean Soup Recipe. I love this because it combines tender ground beef, nutritious beans, and vibrant veggies all simmered slowly to create a comforting bowl of soup that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Trust me, once you make this, it’ll quickly become one of your go-to recipes for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients in this Crock Pot Beef and Bean Soup Recipe work together to build layers of flavor and satisfying texture. You’ll want to grab fresh veggies and quality beef, but you’ll see this recipe is pretty forgiving if you have to swap a few things based on what’s in your pantry.

• Olive oil: Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil to brown your beef for a nice depth of flavor.
• Ground beef: I like lean to medium fat content so the soup isn’t too greasy but still flavorful.
• Onion: Yellow or white onion works great; it adds sweetness when cooked down slowly.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is key — it gives that classic comforting base.
• Carrots: Chop them evenly so they cook perfectly tender without mushiness.
• Celery stalks: Adds aromatic freshness to the broth with a subtle crunch.
• Crushed tomatoes: The canned variety lends richness and a bit of acidity to balance the beef.
• Vegetable or chicken stock: I usually use chicken stock for more flavor, but veggie stock keeps it lighter.
• Cannellini beans: Rinse and drain well to avoid excess starchiness and keep the soup smooth.
• Frozen corn: Added near the end so it stays sweet and slightly crisp.
• Salt and fresh cracked pepper: Season gradually to taste for a perfectly balanced soup.
• Dried thyme: Just a pinch gives an earthy herbal note that ties everything together.

Variations

I love how adaptable this Crock Pot Beef and Bean Soup Recipe is — you can easily tweak it to fit what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Play around with the beans, veggies, or seasonings to make it your own.

• Use ground turkey or chicken: I’ve swapped beef for turkey on lighter nights, and it still comes out deliciously tender and hearty.
• Add more spices: When I want it a little smoky, I throw in some smoked paprika or a dash of chili powder — instant flavor booster.
• Make it vegetarian: Skip the beef and double up on beans with vegetable broth for a filling meatless meal.
• Seasonal veggies mix: Feel free to add diced zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for extra color and nutrients.

How to Make Crock Pot Beef and Bean Soup Recipe

Step 1: Searing the Beef and Sautéing Aromatics

First things first, heat your olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef along with half of your salt, pepper, and all the minced garlic. Toss in the chopped onion and cook everything until the beef is fully browned and the onions are translucent and fragrant — this usually takes about 7-10 minutes. This step builds a savory base that makes the soup sing, so don’t skip it! Plus, browning the beef first helps reduce any excess fat in the slow cooker later.

Step 2: Layering Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

Next, transfer your beef and onion mixture straight into the slow cooker. Sprinkle the chopped carrots and celery evenly on top, then gently pour in the crushed tomatoes and stock. Add the rinsed cannellini beans and the rest of your salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Give everything a gentle stir to combine — careful not to break up the beans if you can help it. This layering helps the flavors meld beautifully over the hours.

Step 3: Slow Cooking the Soup

Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to LOW. Let that magic happen for five hours. I usually do this step while going about my day — it’s like a delicious timer that makes coming home to dinner a joy. The low and slow heat tenderizes the beef and lets all the veggies soften just right.

Step 4: Adding the Corn and Finishing Touches

Once those five hours are up, uncover the slow cooker and add the frozen corn. Pop the lid back on and cook for one more hour. Adding the corn late keeps it sweet and slightly crisp, which gives the soup a lovely burst of freshness. After it’s done, give the soup a good stir and taste it for seasoning — you can always add a pinch more salt or pepper if it needs a little extra oomph.

How to Serve Crock Pot Beef and Bean Soup Recipe

Garnishes

I’m a big fan of fresh garnishes to brighten up this hearty soup. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or cilantro on top for color and freshness. Sometimes I add a dollop of sour cream or shredded sharp cheddar for richness — it’s like an instant upgrade. And don’t forget a crack of fresh black pepper or a little pinch of red chili flakes if you want a bit of heat!

Side Dishes

This soup is great on its own but pairs beautifully with rustic bread or warm cornbread to soak up all that delicious broth. I also like serving it alongside a crisp green salad or a simple roasted vegetable medley for a well-rounded meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a cozy dinner party, I’ve served this soup in hollowed-out bread bowls — everyone loves the novelty and the added carb! Another time, I garnished with dollops of guacamole and crushed tortilla chips for a Tex-Mex twist that was a crowd-pleaser. Don’t be afraid to get creative — this recipe is a great canvas.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually cool the soup completely, then store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge. It keeps perfectly for about 3-4 days. What I love is that the flavors deepen even more overnight, so leftovers sometimes taste even better than the first day.

Freezing

This Crock Pot Beef and Bean Soup Recipe freezes wonderfully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some headspace for expansion. When I made a big batch for a crowd, freezing portions allowed me to quickly thaw and reheat for future meals without losing any flavor or texture.

Reheating

To reheat, I warm the soup gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If it’s a bit thick, adding a splash of broth or water helps loosen it to the perfect consistency. Microwaving works too; just use shorter intervals and stir to prevent hot spots.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Crock Pot Beef and Bean Soup Recipe is a lifesaver in my kitchen when I want a nourishing, comforting meal with minimal fuss. It’s flexible, forgiving, and so satisfying that my family goes crazy for it every single time. I love sharing this with friends who tell me it quickly became one of their favorites too. Give it a try — you’ll enjoy the cozy flavors and the ease of having a homemade soup ready when you walk in the door.

Print